The paw paw tree produces the largest edible fruit of any North American native plant. Paw paw trees are smaller, usually from 6-15 feet tall. Adapted to a wide variety of soils and sites, paw paws can tolerate some shade and wetter soils than other fruit trees. Usually evergreen. Sometimes grows into a large shrub. Fruit ripens in September. Plant two to ensure adequate pollination. Paw paw fruits do not have a long shelf life. They are preserved by drying or canning. Fruit has a tropical flavor unknown in any other temperate fruit. Frost resistant. 400 chill hours. Zones 5-9.